Assessing solutions for enteric methane emissions

Enteric methane emissions from cattle — or cow burps — are one of the largest contributors of global methane, a powerful pollutant that is increasing some of the worst effects of climate change. Because methane is so potent, lowering methane emissions is also one of the fastest ways to slow down those effects. 

There are already solutions available for reducing enteric methane emissions which are ready to scale. In addition to a summary of those opportunities, this report provides critical questions that can help decision-makers assess the readiness, risks and opportunities associated with each solution.

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Key findings

• Credible climate action depends on scientific rigor.
  Not all enteric methane solutions are backed by the same level of scientific validation, safety data or regulatory oversight. Evaluation is essential to ensure methane reductions are credible, durable and deployable at scale.
• Methane reduction alone is not enough.
  Enteric methane solutions should be evaluated not only on methane-reduction potential, but also on impacts to animal productivity, animal health, food safety, environmental outcomes and practical deployment within dairy and beef production systems.
• Dairy and beef value chain actors can help close the gap between innovation and implementation.
  Dairy and beef value chain actors can accelerate the development and adoption of enteric methane solutions by supporting research, regulatory data generation, pilot testing and producer engagement, while also reinforcing science-based standards.